WCSO NEWS — Washoe County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested two men Wednesday night who were attempting to steal copper wiring from the County’s North Valleys Regional Park in Stead.
At approximately 9:40 p.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2014, a Sheriff’s Patrol Deputy observed a suspicious vehicle parked near the Sierra Picnic Pavilion in the south side of the park. Upon further investigation, Deputies discovered that Mitchell Metcalf, age 20, and Jordan Burdette, age 20, were in the process of pulling copper wire from a parking lot light post as well as the park’s irrigation system.
Deputies arrested Metcalf and Burdette on multiple charges, including Destruction of Property, Possession of Burglary Tools and Damage to Park Property.
Metal theft prevention is part of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office ongoing commitment to public safety and security. Metal thieves commonly target remote or unoccupied locations. Residents are asked to stay alert and report suspicious activity to law enforcement. Look, listen and let someone know.
Tips to help protect against metal theft from the Staying Safe page on WashoeSheriff.com:
Secure foundation openings in the crawl space of your house with a good hasp and padlock.
If possible, build a small chain link fence or cage enclosures around the outside portions of your commercial fixtures, heating and cooling systems.
Don’t store scrap metal outside or within view.
Contact local law enforcement if you see any suspicious activity.
Check your business and residential properties regularly.
Keep a close eye on your irrigation systems and on vacant homes and businesses in your neighborhood.
photo 1: Mitchell Metcalf, age 20
photo 2: Jordan Burdette, age 20
